The great-tailed grackle or Mexican grackle is a medium-sized, highly social passerine bird native to North and South America. A member of the family Icteridae, it is one of 10 extant species of grackle and is closely related to the boat-tailed grackle and the extinct slender-billed grackle. In the southern and southwestern United States, the grackle is sometimes referred to simply as a "blackbird" or (erroneously) a "crow" due to its glossy black plumage; however, grackles form their own unique genus that is separate from other "blackbirds", such as the red-winged and Brewer's blackbirds, despite being in the same family (Icteridae). Superficially, Brewer's blackbird is one of the most visually similar species to grackles.
Region
North and Central America
Typical Environment
Occurs from the southwestern United States through most of Mexico and Central America to northern South America, reaching parts of Colombia and northwest Peru. It thrives in human-modified landscapes such as towns, parks, farms, and suburban areas. Natural habitats include marshes, mangroves, lakeshores, and open scrub near water. It often roosts communally in reed beds or urban trees and avoids dense interior forests. The species’ range and local densities have increased notably over the last century.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Mexican grackle, this species has rapidly expanded its range northward with urbanization and irrigation. Males sport an exceptionally long, keel-shaped tail used in dramatic display postures. Great-tailed grackles form huge communal roosts that can number in the thousands and are known for inventive, problem-solving behaviors.
Breeding display by male in Costa Rica
A male great-tailed grackle, making its distinctive call
Eating a chestnut-collared swallow killed in a window strike
A female great-tailed grackle standing on a branch in Austin, Texas
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with strong, direct flight; tail often fanned
Social Behavior
Highly gregarious, forming large flocks and communal roosts that can mix with other blackbirds. Breeds in loose colonies, often near water or in urban plantings. Males display by puffing plumage, spreading the tail, and giving loud songs; the species is polygynous in many populations.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are varied and metallic, including whistles, squeaks, creaks, and harsh chatters. Males deliver conspicuous display songs, while contact calls are sharp and carry well in open, urban environments.
